Ángel Di María was experiencing a dream week with Paris Saint-Germain. On Wednesday, his side eliminated Barcelona to advance to the Champions League quarterfinals. On Friday, it was announced that the 33-year-old had extended his PSG contract through 2022 with the option of an additional year.
But on Sunday, Di María was abruptly withdrawn from PSG’s Ligue 1 match against Nantes in the 62nd minute after discussions between manager Mauricio Pochettino and sports director Leonardo. After Di María made way for Leandro Paredes, he quickly made his way down the tunnel with Pochettino accompanying him, although the manager would soon return to the touchline.
Di María, however, left the Parc des Princes immediately.
Leonardo leans over to speak to Pochettino. Leonardo gets on his phone, Pochettino then brings Di Maria off & both disappear down the tunnel only for Poch to reappear shortly after
A very strange moment https://t.co/FnCSn2OXOS pic.twitter.com/hMjTPEztXd— Tom Scholes (@_TomScholes) March 14, 2021
The reason for the substitution was reported as a “personal concern” by RMC Sports, but it’s since been revealed that Di María’s home was burglarized with his family present.
Reports out of Argentina and France that there was a robbery at Angel Di Maria's home where his family was present hence the reason he was substituted out of the PSG game.
— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) March 14, 2021
RMC describe the robbery at Angel di Maria's home as "very violent."
— Get French Football News (@GFFN) March 14, 2021
Di Maria was replaced during Nantes game after his home was broken into while his family was presenthttps://t.co/Y0kIfJfKtk
— beIN SPORTS USA (@beINSPORTSUSA) March 14, 2021
It’s now come to light that center back Marquinhos was also targeted.
Breaking | Marquinhos' parents were also the victims of a robbery in Paris tonight. More follows. (RMC)
— Get French Football News (@GFFN) March 14, 2021
PSG would lose the match 2-1 to stay second in the table, three points behind leader Lille.
